At Cura Mind and Wellness, we offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, TMS, a safe, non-invasive treatment for patients struggling with depression that has not improved with traditional medications. Serving patients throughout Houston, with a dedicated treatment site in Richmond, TX, our program is led by Vivian Emuobe, MSN, BSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience in complex mental health care.
By combining advanced technology with compassionate clinical oversight, we provide patients in the Houston metro area a new option for relief when other treatments have not worked.
How TMS Works
TMS uses gentle, magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. Sessions are completed while the patient is awake, seated, and able to resume normal activities immediately afterward.
Unlike medications that affect the whole body, TMS targets specific regions of the brain, making it ideal for patients who:
- Experienced limited benefit from antidepressant medications,
- Could not tolerate side effects of traditional treatments,
- Prefer a non-invasive, drug-free therapy.
Research shows that many patients who undergo a full course of TMS experience significant reductions in depressive symptoms, improved daily functioning, and in some cases, full remission.
Who Can Benefit from TMS?
TMS therapy is most commonly recommended for treatment-resistant depression, but its benefits extend to a wider range of patients. At Cura Mind and Wellness, we see:
- Adults with persistent depression who have tried two or more antidepressants without lasting improvement,
- Patients sensitive to medication side effects, such as weight changes, fatigue, or sexual dysfunction,
- Individuals balancing work and family responsibilities who want a treatment option that allows them to return to normal activities right after each session,
- Patients looking for non-invasive care before considering more intensive options like electroconvulsive therapy.
While TMS is not a first-line treatment, it is often the turning point for patients who have felt stuck in their recovery journey.
What the TMS Process Looks Like
- Initial Consultation: Patients begin with a full evaluation to determine eligibility. We review history, prior treatments, and current symptoms.
- Mapping and Planning: During the first session, we identify the specific region of the brain to be stimulated and customize treatment settings for each patient.
- Treatment Course: TMS sessions are typically scheduled five days a week for four to six weeks. Each session lasts about 20 to 40 minutes. Patients remain awake, can read or listen to music during treatment, and return to normal activities immediately afterward.
- Follow-Up and Monitoring: Throughout treatment, progress is tracked carefully. Many patients notice improvements within the first two to three weeks. Adjustments are made if needed, and therapy may be combined with medication management or counseling for optimal results.
- Maintenance and Long-Term Support: Some patients benefit from maintenance sessions to prevent relapse. We work together to create a plan for long-term stability.
Local Access to TMS in Houston and Richmond
While TMS is available in only a limited number of clinics across the Houston metro, Cura Mind and Wellness is proud to make it accessible to patients through our Richmond office. Convenient to patients in Houston, Sugar Land, Katy, and surrounding Fort Bend County, our location makes advanced psychiatric care more available without requiring long commutes into the medical center.
For patients who live outside Richmond, telepsychiatry is available for initial consultations and ongoing support, with in-person sessions required for the TMS treatments themselves.
FAQs – TMS Therapy in Houston and Richmond
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Most patients describe the sensation as light tapping on the scalp during treatment. Discomfort is minimal and typically decreases after the first few sessions.
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The most common side effect is mild scalp discomfort or headache, which usually resolves quickly. TMS does not cause memory loss or systemic side effects associated with medications.
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Clinical studies show that many patients experience significant improvement, and some achieve full remission. Response varies by individual, but success rates are encouraging for those who have not improved with medication alone.
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Many insurance providers cover TMS for treatment-resistant depression. Our team will assist with verification and pre-authorization.
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Yes. TMS is often most effective when combined with medication management or psychotherapy, creating a comprehensive approach to mental health care.
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Some patients report improvements within the first two to three weeks. Others may see progress later in the course of treatment. Consistency is key to achieving results.
Why Choose Cura Mind and Wellness for TMS
Patients in Houston and Fort Bend County choose our practice because TMS at Cura Mind and Wellness is different.
- Board-Certified Expertise: Vivian Emuobe provides direct oversight, ensuring each treatment plan is clinically precise and personally monitored.
- Comprehensive Care: TMS is integrated into broader psychiatric services, including medication management, psychotherapy, and wellness programs, so patients receive support on all fronts.
- Patient Comfort: Treatments are provided in a welcoming Richmond office where patient dignity and comfort are priorities.
- Evidence-Based Approach: We rely on FDA-approved TMS technology and protocols supported by clinical research.
- Personalized Treatment: Each plan is designed around the patient’s history, response, and goals rather than a one-size-fits-all model.
This combination of advanced technology and compassionate care positions Cura Mind and Wellness as a trusted provider of TMS in the Houston metro area.
A New Path Forward
For patients across Houston and Richmond who have struggled with depression despite trying multiple medications, TMS therapy offers a safe, effective alternative. At Cura Mind and Wellness, we are committed to guiding patients through this advanced treatment with expertise, compassion, and individualized care.
If you are ready to explore whether TMS is right for you, we invite you to begin your journey today.